Minister’s statement on Education Week 2026

VICTORIA - Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care, has released the following statement in celebration of Education Week 2026:

"Education Week is a time to celebrate the achievements and dedication of every student, teacher, support staff member, administrator and trustee who goes above and beyond to create welcoming classrooms where students feel safe, supported and inspired. Whether it is helping students make a breakthrough in their learning, discover new passions or simply offering encouragement when they need it most, classrooms throughout B.C. are full of people making a lasting difference in their communities.

"Our government is committed to supporting strong public education and ensuring every child can succeed. That means surrounding students with the support they need, nutritious food, strong early-learning programs, mental-health resources and welcoming spaces, so they can truly thrive.

"This week is also a time to recognize the many ways families and communities support learning. From volunteering on councils to cheering students on at science fairs, music recitals and sporting events, education is strongest when families and communities are part of it.

"To the educators, support staff, administrators, trustees and families who contribute to B.C.'s education system: Thank you. As we celebrate Education Week 2026, we're reminded that education is powerful, education is meaningful and education is for everyone. Our government remains committed to supporting learning environments where every student feels welcomed, respected and empowered to succeed - not just today, but every day."

Quick Facts:

• More than $8.3 billion in public funding is going to school districts this school year.
• Since introducing the Feeding Futures program in 2023, almost 90% of schools in B.C. now offer accessible school food programs, reaching more than 246,000 students.
• The B.C. public school system has added 7,624 teachers since 2017 to respond to increased enrolment, and a new teacher mentorship program will launch in September 2026.
• Since 2021, the Province has invested more than $16 million to expand career education and dual credit opportunities for K-12 students.
• The Province has provided $30 million to scale up literacy supports in schools and more than 36,000 kindergarteners in B.C. public schools have been screened for literacy so far.
• Since 2017, the Province has approved more than $7 billion in school capital investments that are delivering more than 47,000 new student seats, with thousands more on the way.

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